Chronicle Editor
Martin Kadzere, Harare Bureau
ZIMBABWE has introduced a rebate of duty on imported equipment and machinery for establishing solar-powered charging stations for electric vehicles (EVs).
Rebate of duty refers to a reduction or a refund of customs duty normally payable on imported goods.
The incentives apply to operators approved by the Zimbabwe Energy Regulatory Authority (ZERA), as outlined in Statutory Instrument 35 of 2025, the Customs and Excise (General) (Amendment) Regulations.
In terms of the regulations, equipment imported under the rebate cannot be moved from one approved operator or location to another without the Zimbabwe Revenue Authority (ZIMRA) commissioner’s written consent.
Furthermore, any entity granted the duty rebate is prohibited from selling or disposing of the equipment without ZIMRA’s written permission and the payment of duty that was originally waived.
The list includes essential components for establishing these stations, such as solar panels, inverters, chargers to deliver power to electric vehicles and battery storage facilities.
It also comprises charging control units, mounting structures for the solar panels and equipment, electrical wiring, monitoring systems and grounding equipment for safety.
There is a noticeable increase in interest and the gradual adoption of EVs in Zimbabwe.
The Government has shown a commitment to promoting EVs and effective January 1, 2025, the import duty on electric motor vehicles was reduced from 40 percent to 25 percent to make EVs more affordable.
However, analysts have expressed concern over the current lack of sufficient infrastructure to adequately charge electric vehicles across Zimbabwe, posing a significant hurdle to the widespread adoption of EVs.
Potential EV owners are understandably hesitant to purchase electric cars if they are uncertain about the availability of convenient and reliable charging options, especially for long-distance travel.
The limited number of charging points, particularly outside major urban centres and along key transport corridors, creates range anxiety and restricts the practical usability of electric vehicles for many.
“Addressing this infrastructure gap through strategic investment in public and private charging networks, including exploring solutions like solar-powered charging stations in more remote areas, is crucial for building consumer confidence and accelerating the transition to electric mobility in Zimbabwe,” Harare-based economic analyst Mr Carlos Tadya said in an interview.
Meanwhile, horticultural producers have called for a Value Added Tax (VAT) waiver on solar equipment.
The strategic approach aims to incentivise investments in off-grid energy solutions within the sector to reduce their reliance on the often-unstable national power grid.
The Horticultural Development Council (HDC), a key representative body for Zimbabwe’s horticulture industry, has highlighted the severe impact of persistent power shortages on members’ operations, which are fundamentally dependent on a constant and reliable electricity supply for processes such as irrigation, cooling, and processing.
The HDC argues that removing VAT on solar equipment would make off-grid energy alternatives more financially accessible, ensuring the sector’s productivity and competitiveness amidst ongoing power challenges.
The growing adoption of captive power solutions, including solar, by businesses underscores the urgent need for reliable and independent energy sources to sustain economic activity in the face of grid limitations.
Latest data from ZERA reveals a total of 29 projects underway, promising to add a substantial 1 688 megawatts (MW) to the country’s energy mix.
A notable trend in the private ventures is the strong focus on solar photovoltaic (PV) technology.
With 25 projects in the pipeline, solar power accounts for a significant 403 MW of the capacity, highlighting the growing appeal and viability of solar energy for businesses seeking sustainable power solutions.
Online Reporter